Six MSU supervisors were surprised with Supervisor Recognition Awards last week with the final award given Monday.

Doug Estry, associate dean of Academic and Student Affairs for the College of Natural Science, was recognized Monday for being "a good guy."

"He is sensitive to the needs of the working family," Administrative Assistant Laconya Murchison said. "He makes it possible for me to be a good mother, employee and student."

Estry said he wasn't expecting the award.

"I'm surprised, but it's not me, it's the people I have to work with that make my job easy," he said. "They get a lot of work done and do so well at it."

The awards began four years ago on National Boss Day - Oct. 16 - to recognize MSU supervisors who support employees' professional and personal needs.

"I got a lot of complaints about bad bosses, so I wanted to do something to recognize the good ones," said Family Resource Center Coordinator Lori Strom.

Strom said good bosses are understanding and make people enjoy coming to work.

"We select supervisors who offer support at work, but they let family be the first priority," said Jodi Roberto Hancock, educational program director for the Women's Resource Center.

More than 50 nominations were received this year, but only six supervisors received awards.

Winners were surprised with a plaque and personalized gifts that reflect their hobbies and interests, and a reception with staff and family members in attendance.